U.S. patent application number 10/702111 was filed with the patent office on 2004-08-05 for shoe with tunable cushioning system.
This patent application is currently assigned to adidas International Marketing B. V.. Invention is credited to Devlin, John P., Jang, Stuart R., Lussier, Michel, Pelletier, James S. K., Steszyn, Michael.
Application Number | 20040148799 10/702111 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34435543 |
Filed Date | 2004-08-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040148799 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lussier, Michel ; et
al. |
August 5, 2004 |
Shoe with tunable cushioning system
Abstract
The invention is directed to cushioning systems for athletic
shoes that can be adjusted by a wearer. The systems include one or
more cushioning inserts having anisotropic properties and are
lockable in place in the shoe sole. The systems may also include
structural support elements that provide additional stability and
support to the wearer's foot. The wearer can adjust the degree of
cushioning by rotating the insert within the shoe. The wearer can
also remove the insert and replace the insert with a new and/or
different insert.
Inventors: |
Lussier, Michel; (Portland,
OR) ; Steszyn, Michael; (Portland, OR) ;
Devlin, John P.; (Tewksbury, MA) ; Pelletier, James
S. K.; (Newton, MA) ; Jang, Stuart R.;
(Jamaica Plain, MA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
TESTA, HURWITZ & THIBEAULT, LLP
HIGH STREET TOWER
125 HIGH STREET
BOSTON
MA
02110
US
|
Assignee: |
adidas International Marketing B.
V.
Koningin Wilhelminaplein
NL
|
Family ID: |
34435543 |
Appl. No.: |
10/702111 |
Filed: |
November 5, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10702111 |
Nov 5, 2003 |
|
|
|
10144440 |
May 13, 2002 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
36/28 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43B 1/0072 20130101;
A43B 3/0063 20130101; A43B 23/24 20130101; A43B 3/50 20220101; A43B
3/24 20130101; A43B 3/0031 20130101; A43B 3/246 20130101; A43B
13/186 20130101; A43B 13/187 20130101; A43B 13/188 20130101; A43B
13/181 20130101; A43B 3/0042 20130101; A43B 3/0078 20130101; A43B
7/1464 20220101 |
Class at
Publication: |
036/028 |
International
Class: |
A43B 013/18 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An adjustable cushioning system for an article of footwear, the
system comprising: an insert adapted to be received in an aperture
formed in a sole of the article of footwear, wherein the insert can
be reoriented rotationally in the article of footwear; and a
locking mechanism disposed proximate the insert for maintaining the
insert in a predetermined orientation, wherein the locking
mechanism comprises an engagement mechanism for engaging a groove
disposed in the insert.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the locking mechanism comprises
an actuator for actuating the locking mechanism between a locked
position and an unlocked position.
3. The system of claim 2, wherein the locking mechanism is biased
into a locked position.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein the insert comprises a generally
cylindrical shape and the groove circumscribes the insert at one of
a proximal end and a distal end of the insert.
5. The system of claim 4, wherein the insert further comprises a
slot disposed adjacent and in communication with the groove for
accepting the engagement mechanism, thereby preventing rotation of
the insert.
6. The system of claim 5, wherein, upon actuation of the actuator,
the engagement mechanism moves out of the slot and into the groove,
thereby allowing the insert to rotate within the sole of the
article of footwear.
7. The system of claim 5 further comprising a plurality of slots
disposed about the insert adjacent to and in communication with the
groove, the slots defining a plurality of locking positions.
8. The system of claim 7, wherein the slots are equally spaced
about a circumference of the insert.
9. The system of claim 2, wherein the actuator is a spring-loaded
button and shaft arrangement.
10. The system of claim 9, wherein the engagement mechanism is
disposed at a distal end of the shaft and includes a projection
slidably disposed at least partially within the groove.
11. The system of claim 1, wherein the insert comprises an
anisotropic property about a longitudinal axis thereof, and a
performance characteristic of the article of footwear can be
modified by reorienting rotationally the insert within the
sole.
12. The system of claim 1 further comprising a second insert
adapted to be received in an aperture in the sole, the insert
including a groove disposed therein for engaging the engagement
mechanism of the locking mechanism.
13. The system of claim 1, wherein the insert comprises a structure
for enabling a wearer to rotate the insert.
14. The system of claim 13, wherein the structure comprises a cap
disposed on one end of the insert, the cap defining recesses for
accepting the wearer's fingers.
15. The system of claim 1, wherein the groove is disposed on an
outer surface of the insert.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part and claims the
benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/144,440, filed May
13, 2002, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by
reference in its entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The invention generally relates to adjustable cushioning
systems for articles of footwear.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
[0003] Conventional athletic shoes include an upper and a sole. The
sole is usually manufactured of a material chosen to optimize a
particular function of the shoe, for example, cushioning or
stiffness. Typically, the sole includes a midsole and an outsole,
either of which can include, for example, a cushioning material to
protect a wearer's foot and leg. One drawback with conventional
shoes is that the wearer has to select a specific shoe to get
optimum performance for a specific activity. For example, the
wearer has to use one type of shoe for running and another type of
shoe for basketball, because one shoe has more cushioning while the
other is stiffer for greater support during lateral movement.
[0004] Shoes have been designed that attempt to combine and
optimize different functions of sport specific shoes; however, the
wearer is still left with a shoe with set functionality that the
wearer cannot customize. What may be optimal for one segment of the
population is not necessarily optimal for everyone. For example,
many shoes are designed with wedges or varying degrees of
cushioning across the width of the sole to compensate for pronation
or supination. Unfortunately, these shoes are typically limited to
compensating for either pronation or supination and the amount of
compensation cannot be varied to suit a particular wearer.
Furthermore, shoes have been designed that attempt to give a wearer
some adjustability with respect to a specific function; however,
these shoes may require at least partial disassembly of the shoe
and/or the wearer may be limited in the amount of adjustment that
can be made.
[0005] U.S. Pat. No. 5,875,568, the disclosure of which is hereby
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, discloses a
cushioning system including a cylindrical shock-absorbing insert
located in a heel of a shoe. Similarly, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,430,810
and 4,573,279, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated
herein by reference in their entireties, also disclose cylindrical
inserts located in the heel of the shoe. There are several
drawbacks to these cushioning systems. For example, the inserts are
isotropic. To adjust the cushioning properties of an isotropic
insert, the wearer has to remove the insert and replace the insert
with another insert having different cushioning properties. The
'568 patent discloses rotating the insert to "renew" the cushioning
effect of the insert, but the cushioning effect is the same no
matter what orientation is selected. In addition, the inserts can
"turn" during use, because there is no mechanism for locking the
inserts against rotational movement during use.
[0006] There is, therefore, a need for a shoe that the wearer can
easily, repeatedly, and securely customize. Such a shoe should give
the wearer the ability to make numerous adjustments to the
functional characteristics of the shoe, for example, increased
cushioning, compensation for pronation, compensation for
supination, etc.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The invention is directed to adjustable cushioning systems
for articles of footwear that can be customized by a wearer. The
systems include one or more cushioning inserts having an
anisotropic property afforded, for example, by a multiple density
construction. The systems may also include structural support
elements that provide additional stability and support to the foot.
The wearer can adjust the degree of cushioning by rotating the
insert within the shoe. Alternatively, the insert could be moved,
flipped, or otherwise displaced relative to the shoe to adjust the
degree of cushioning. The wearer could also remove the insert and
replace the insert with a new and/or different insert. In addition,
the insert can be locked in a predetermined position to maintain a
specific performance characteristic.
[0008] In one aspect, the invention generally relates to an
adjustable cushioning system for an article of footwear. The system
includes an insert adapted to be received in an aperture formed in
a sole of the article of footwear and a locking mechanism disposed
proximate the insert for maintaining the insert in a predetermined
position or orientation. The insert has an anisotropic property
about a longitudinal axis thereof and can be reoriented
rotationally in the article of footwear to modify a performance
characteristic thereof. The anisotropic property may be
compressibility, resiliency, compliancy, elasticity, damping,
energy storage, stiffness, or combinations thereof. In various
embodiments, the insert is made of a multiple density foam. In
another embodiment, the insert may include a skeletal element. In
yet another embodiment, the insert is made of a combination of a
skeletal element and a multiple density foam. Alternatively, the
insert could be made of a first material having a first hardness, a
second material having a second hardness, and a third material
having a third hardness, for example.
[0009] In another aspect, the invention relates to an article of
footwear including a sole and an adjustable cushioning system. The
system includes an insert adapted to be received in an aperture
formed in the sole of the article of footwear and a locking
mechanism disposed proximate the insert for maintaining the insert
in a predetermined orientation. The insert has an anisotropic
property about a longitudinal axis thereof and can be reoriented
rotationally in the article of footwear to modify a performance
characteristic thereof. The anisotropic property may be
compressibility, resiliency, compliancy, elasticity, damping,
energy storage, stiffness, or combinations thereof. The system can
be located in a heel region and/or a forefoot region of the sole of
the article of footwear. In one embodiment, the sole includes an
outsole and a midsole, and the insert is disposed at least
partially within the midsole of the article of footwear.
[0010] In one embodiment, the locking mechanism includes a lever
coupled to the insert for rotatably positioning the insert and a
mating groove for receiving and maintaining the lever and the
insert in a predetermined position. The groove may be disposed in a
casing disposed about an end of the insert. Alternatively, the
groove could be disposed in a portion of the sole or another
structural element disposed within the sole. The lever has a locked
position and an unlocked position. The locking mechanism may
further include a second mating groove for receiving and
maintaining the lever in a second predetermined position. The
locking mechanism may also include a detent and an engagement
mechanism disposed adjacent the detent. The engagement mechanism
has a notch that is engageable with the detent to help maintain the
orientation of the insert and/or to indicate to a wearer the
position of the insert. The locking mechanism may include a visual
position indicator, an audible position indicator, or both. The
locking mechanism may be at least partially disposed within a
retainer ring circumscribing an end of the insert. The locking
mechanism may be disposed on a medial side, lateral side, or heel
portion of the article of footwear.
[0011] In additional embodiments, the adjustable cushioning system
includes a casing disposed in the sole and defining a recess for
receiving the insert. The casing may be a retainer ring that
circumscribes an end of the insert. The adjustable cushioning
system may include a second casing. The second casing may be a
retainer ring that circumscribes an opposite end of the insert. In
addition, the casing could be a first plate disposed above the
insert and a second plate disposed below the insert and coupled to
the first plate at an end thereof. In addition, the adjustable
cushioning system may include a second insert adapted to be
received in the aperture formed in the sole of the article of
footwear and a second locking mechanism disposed proximate the
second insert for maintaining the second insert in a predetermined
position. The second insert has an anisotropic property about a
longitudinal axis thereof and can be reoriented rotationally in the
article of footwear to modify a performance characteristic thereof.
The second insert may be oriented generally parallel to the first
insert.
[0012] In additional embodiments, the insert may include a shaft
generally longitudinally disposed therein. The shaft may be used to
facilitate insertion, removal, and reorientation of the insert, for
example. The insert may have a generally cylindrical shape and may
define one or more generally longitudinally disposed apertures. The
insert may further include a cap and/or an orientation indicator
disposed on an end thereof. In still other embodiments, the insert
includes an internal support and an external cushioning element
disposed about at least a portion of the internal support. The
external cushioning element may have a lower durometer than the
internal support. The insert may include an axle disposed within
the internal support. Also, the internal support may include a rib
disposed on an external surface thereof. The internal support may
have a cross-section, such as polygonal, arcuate, or combinations
thereof, and may span an entire width of the insert.
[0013] In yet another aspect, the invention generally relates to an
adjustable cushioning system for an article of footwear. The system
includes an insert adapted to be received in an aperture formed in
a sole of the article of footwear. The insert has an anisotropic
property about a longitudinal axis thereof and can be reoriented
rotationally in the article of footwear to modify a performance
characteristic thereof. The anisotropic property can be selected
from the group consisting of compressibility, resiliency,
compliancy, elasticity, damping, energy storage, and stiffness. The
insert can include an internal support and an external cushioning
element disposed about at least a portion of the internal support.
In one embodiment, the external cushioning element has a lower
durometer than the internal support.
[0014] In various embodiments, the adjustable cushioning system
includes an axle disposed within the internal support. The insert
can have essentially any cross-sectional shape, such as polygonal,
arcuate, or combinations of polygonal and arcuate elements. In the
present application, the term polygonal is used to denote any shape
including at least two line segments, such as rectangles,
trapezoids, and triangles. Examples of arcuate shapes include
circular and elliptical. In a particular embodiment, the insert has
a generally cylindrical shape. The insert can include a handle
disposed on an end thereof. Further, the external cushioning
element and/or the internal support can include a generally
longitudinally disposed aperture. In one embodiment, the aperture
can be substantially parallel to the internal support. In another
embodiment, the external cushioning element and/or the internal
support can include a second generally longitudinally disposed
aperture. In additional embodiments, the internal support can
include one or more ribs disposed on an external surface thereof.
The internal support can have a cross section that is polygonal,
arcuate, or combinations thereof. The internal support can span
substantially an entire width of the insert.
[0015] In addition, the adjustable cushioning system can include a
structural support casing disposed in a sole of the article of
footwear and defining a recess for housing the insert. The
structural support casing may have a generally recumbent V or
U-shaped cross-sectional profile. Furthermore, the adjustable
cushioning system can include a second insert. The second insert
can include an internal support and an external cushioning element
disposed about at least a portion of the internal support. In an
embodiment of the invention that includes a structural support
casing, the second insert can be disposed in a second cylindrical
recess in the structural support casing.
[0016] Furthermore, the adjustable cushioning system can be
generally longitudinally disposed within the article of footwear
and can extend from about the heel region to about an arch region
of the article of footwear. Alternatively, the adjustable
cushioning system can be generally laterally disposed within the
article of footwear and can span substantially an entire width of
the article of footwear. In addition, the insert can be diagonally
disposed within the article of footwear. The inserts may be
removable from the article of footwear so they can be replaced when
they wear or when different inserts having different
characteristics are desired.
[0017] In another aspect, the invention generally relates to an
adjustable cushioning system for an article of footwear. The system
includes an insert adapted to be received in an aperture formed in
a sole of the article of footwear, where the insert can be
reoriented rotationally in the article of footwear. Also included
is a locking mechanism disposed proximate the insert for
maintaining the insert in a predetermined angular orientation,
where the locking mechanism includes an engagement mechanism for
engaging a groove disposed in the insert.
[0018] In one embodiment, the locking mechanism further includes an
actuator for actuating the locking mechanism between a locked
position and an unlocked position. The locking mechanism can also
be biased into a locked position. In another embodiment, the insert
includes a generally cylindrical shape body and the groove
circumscribes the insert at one of a proximal end and a distal end
of the insert. In a further adaptation, the insert includes a slot
disposed adjacent and in communication with the groove for
accepting the engagement mechanism, thereby preventing rotation of
the insert. In another embodiment, upon actuation of the actuator,
the engagement mechanism moves out of the slot and into the groove,
thereby allowing the insert to rotate within the sole of the
article of footwear. A plurality of slots can also be disposed
about the insert adjacent to and in communication with the groove,
the slots defining a plurality of locking positions. The slots can
also be equally spaced about a circumference of the insert.
[0019] In another embodiment, the actuator is a spring-loaded
button and shaft arrangement. The engagement mechanism, in another
embodiment, is disposed at a distal end of the shaft and includes a
projection slidably disposed at least partially within the groove.
In another adaptation of the invention, the insert includes an
anisotropic property about a longitudinal axis, and a performance
characteristic of the article of footwear can be modified by
reorienting rotationally the insert within the sole.
[0020] The invention can also include a second insert adapted to be
received in an aperture in the sole, the insert including a groove
disposed therein for engaging the engagement mechanism of the
locking mechanism. In one embodiment, the insert includes a
structure for enabling a wearer to rotate the insert. In another
embodiment, the structure includes a cap disposed on one end of the
insert, the cap defining recesses for receiving the wearer's
fingers. In other embodiments, the groove is disposed on an outer
surface of the insert.
[0021] These and other objects, along with advantages and features
of the present invention herein disclosed, will become apparent
through reference to the following description, the accompanying
drawings, and the claims. Furthermore, it is to be understood that
the features of the various embodiments described herein are not
mutually exclusive and can exist in various combinations and
permutations.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] In the drawings, like reference characters generally refer
to the same parts throughout the different views. Also, the
drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead generally
being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. In
the following description, various embodiments of the present
invention are described with reference to the following drawings,
in which:
[0023] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a medial side of an article of
footwear including an adjustable cushioning system in accordance
with the invention;
[0024] FIG. 2A is a schematic perspective view of an adjustable
cushioning system in accordance with the invention and having a
single insert;
[0025] FIG. 2B is a schematic perspective view of an adjustable
cushioning system in accordance with the invention and having two
inserts;
[0026] FIG. 2C is a schematic end view of the adjustable cushioning
system of FIG. 2B;
[0027] FIG. 2D is a schematic top view of the adjustable cushioning
system of FIG. 2B;
[0028] FIG. 2E is an exploded perspective view of the adjustable
cushioning system of FIG. 2B;
[0029] FIG. 2F is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the
adjustable cushioning system of FIG. 2B with the inserts
removed;
[0030] FIGS. 3A-3C are cross-sectional schematic views of various
embodiments of one insert of FIG. 2D taken at line 3-3;
[0031] FIG. 4A is a schematic end view of the adjustable cushioning
system of FIG. 2B in a locked configuration;
[0032] FIG. 4B is a schematic end view of the adjustable cushioning
system of FIG. 2B in an unlocked configuration;
[0033] FIG. 5A is a schematic perspective view of a positioning
mechanism disposed in the adjustable cushioning system of FIG. 2B,
with the inserts removed;
[0034] FIG. 5B is another schematic perspective view of the
positioning mechanism of FIG. 5A;
[0035] FIG. 5C is another schematic perspective view of the
positioning mechanism of FIG. 5A;
[0036] FIG. 5D is a partial exploded perspective view of the
locking mechanism of FIG. 4A and the positioning mechanism of FIG.
5A;
[0037] FIG. 6A is a partial exploded view of a lateral side of a
heel assembly including the adjustable cushioning system of FIG.
2B;
[0038] FIG. 6B is a partial exploded view of the medial side of the
heel assembly of FIG. 6A;
[0039] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the sole of FIG. 1
including the adjustable cushioning system of FIG. 2B;
[0040] FIG. 8A is a schematic perspective view of an alternative
embodiment of an insert in accordance with the invention;
[0041] FIG. 8B is another schematic perspective view of the insert
of FIG. 8A, without an external cushioning element;
[0042] FIG. 8C is a schematic perspective view of an end cap for
use with the insert of FIGS. 8A and 8B;
[0043] FIG. 8D is cross-sectional schematic view of the insert of
FIG. 8A taken at line 8D-8D;
[0044] FIG. 8E is a cross-sectional schematic view of an
alternative embodiment of an insert in accordance with the
invention;
[0045] FIG. 8F is a cross-sectional schematic view of another
alternative embodiment of an insert in accordance with the
invention;
[0046] FIG. 9A is a schematic perspective view of another
alternative embodiment of an insert in accordance with the
invention;
[0047] FIG. 9B is another schematic perspective view of the insert
of FIG. 9A, without an external cushioning element;
[0048] FIG. 9C is a schematic perspective view of an end cap and
axle for use with the insert of FIGS. 9A and 9B;
[0049] FIG. 9D is cross-sectional schematic view of the insert of
FIG. 9A taken at line 9D-9D;
[0050] FIG. 10A is a schematic front view of an alternative
embodiment of an adjustable cushioning system in accordance with
the invention;
[0051] FIG. 10B is a schematic left side view of the adjustable
cushioning system of FIG. 10A;
[0052] FIG. 10C is a schematic right side view of the insert of
FIG. 10A;
[0053] FIG. 10D is a cross-sectional schematic view of the insert
of FIG. 10A taken at line 10D-10D;
[0054] FIG. 11A is a schematic view of an article of footwear
including an embodiment of an adjustable cushioning system in
accordance with the invention disposed within a sole;
[0055] FIG. 11B is a partially exploded perspective view of the
sole and adjustable cushioning system of FIG. 11A;
[0056] FIG. 12 is a partially exploded perspective view of the sole
of FIG. 11B including another embodiment of an adjustable
cushioning system in accordance with the invention;
[0057] FIG. 13 is a partially exploded perspective view of the sole
of FIG. 11B including another embodiment of an adjustable
cushioning system in accordance with the invention;
[0058] FIGS. 14A-14F are schematic rear views of an article of
footwear with an adjustable cushioning system disposed therein in
various rotational orientations;
[0059] FIGS. 15A and 15B are schematic perspective views of an
alternative embodiment of a casing for receiving an adjustable
cushioning system in accordance with the invention;
[0060] FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of a casing and a
single insert;
[0061] FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of a sole of a shoe
including an alternative embodiment of an adjustable cushioning
system and a locking mechanism in accordance with the
invention;
[0062] FIG. 18 is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the
locking mechanism of FIG. 17;
[0063] FIG. 19 is an enlarged schematic perspective view of a
portion of the locking mechanism of FIG. 17, showing the locking
mechanism in further detail; and
[0064] FIG. 20 is an enlarged schematic plan view of a portion of
the locking mechanism of FIG. 17 showing a locking slot and
groove.
DESCRIPTION
[0065] FIG. 1 depicts a medial side of an article of footwear 10
including an embodiment of an adjustable cushioning system 12 in
accordance with the invention. Generally, the article of footwear
10 includes an upper 14 and a sole 16. The sole 16 includes a heel
region 18, an arch region 17, and a forefoot region 19. The
adjustable cushioning system 12 is shown disposed generally in the
heel region 18 of the sole 16; however, the adjustable cushioning
system 12 could be disposed anywhere along the length and width of
the article of footwear 10. Additionally, the adjustable cushioning
system 12 shown includes two inserts 20, as shown in greater detail
in FIG. 2B; however, the adjustable cushioning system 12 could
include a single insert 20 or more than two inserts 20, as
necessary, to suit a particular application. In addition, an upper
plate 50 and a lower plate 52 are shown and are described in
greater detail hereinbelow.
[0066] FIGS. 2A-2F depict various embodiments and views of the
adjustable cushioning system 12. FIG. 2A depicts an adjustable
cushioning system 12 having a single insert 20. The insert 20
includes a first end 22 and a second end 24. A first optional
casing 26 is disposed about the first end 22 of the insert 20 and a
second optional casing 28 is disposed about the second end 24 of
the insert 20. The optional casings 26, 28 act to stiffen and
support the insert 20 within the adjustable cushioning system 12.
In one embodiment, the casings 26, 28 are flexible and compress
with the inserts 20. The insert 20 can be retained in the casings
26, 28 by frictional engagement or other mechanical means. In one
embodiment, the casings 26, 28 are rigidly mounted within the sole
16 and the insert 20 is rotatably inserted into the casings 26, 28.
Located at the first end 22 is an optional locking mechanism 30 for
positively maintaining the insert 20 in a predetermined orientation
within the adjustable cushioning system 12 and, correspondingly,
the article of footwear 10. In an alternative embodiment, the
insert 20 may be retained in place by a frictional fit. Depending
on the aggressiveness of use, however, the insert 20 may rotate
within the sole to achieve a position of lesser resistance and
therefore, use of the locking mechanism may be advantageous. The
locking mechanism 30 is described hereinbelow in greater detail
with respect to FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 5A-5D.
[0067] FIG. 2B depicts the adjustable cushioning system 12 of FIG.
1. The adjustable cushioning system 12 includes two inserts 20
disposed generally parallel to one another. In this embodiment, an
optional casing 27 is disposed about the first end 22 of each
insert 20. The casing 27 is essentially two retainer rings 31
circumscribing the first ends 22 of the inserts 20. A second
optional casing 29 is shown disposed about the second end of each
insert 20. Each casing 27, 29 could be a single integral piece or
separate pieces coupled together. The casings 27, 29 act to stiffen
and support the insert 20 within the adjustable cushioning system
12. In one embodiment, the casings 27, 29 are flexible and compress
with the inserts 20. In an embodiment with two or more inserts 20,
the casings 27, 29 also maintain the inserts 20 in their proper
positions relative to one another.
[0068] FIGS. 2C and 2D are an end view and a top view of the
adjustable cushioning system of FIG. 2B, respectively. FIG. 2C
depicts the first ends 22 of the inserts 20 and the locking
mechanisms 30 disposed thereon. Each locking mechanism 30 includes
a lever 32 coupled to a hub 35 and seated within a groove 33. The
locking mechanism 30 is described in greater detail with respect to
FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 5A-5D. FIG. 2D depicts the adjustable cushioning
system 12 having two inserts 20 disposed generally parallel to one
another. FIG. 2D depicts optional end caps 44, 46 disposed on the
ends 22, 24 of the inserts 20. Optionally, end caps 44, 46 can give
the inserts 20 additional support and provide a more finished or
ornamental appearance. Additionally, the end caps 44, 46 can
include indicia relating to the orientation or performance
characteristics of the inserts 20.
[0069] FIG. 2E is an exploded perspective view of the adjustable
cushioning system 12. The system 12 includes two inserts 20, end
caps 44, 46 disposed on the ends of each insert 20, and casings 27,
29 disposed about the ends of the inserts 20. The casings 27, 29
include retainer rings 31 that circumscribe the ends of the inserts
20. Also depicted proximate the first end 22 of the adjustable
cushioning system 12 are the locking mechanisms 30 that include
levers 32, pins 37, and shafts 34. The shafts 34 extend
substantially along the entire length of the inserts 20 and include
hubs 35 disposed on one end for receiving the pins 37 that
pivotably couple the levers 32 to the shafts 34. In addition,
various components of a positioning mechanism 40 are depicted. The
positioning mechanism 40 (FIGS. 5A-5D) includes a detent assembly
36 and two ratchet wheels 38 disposed at the ends of the inserts
20. The positioning mechanism 40 may be sized and configured to
assist the locking mechanism 30 to maintain the inserts 20 in
predetermined orientations and/or provide tactile and audible
feedback to a wearer as to the orientation of the inserts 20. FIG.
2F is a partial perspective view of the adjustable cushioning
system 12 without the inserts 20 shown. FIG. 2F depicts the first
end 22 including the casing 27, the locking mechanisms 30, and the
shafts 34 extending therefrom.
[0070] FIGS. 3A-3C are cross-sectional views of various embodiments
of the insert 20. FIG. 3A depicts an insert 20 having a generally
circular cross-section and an outer wall 58 and a skeletal element
56 defining two apertures 54. The apertures 54 can extend
substantially the entire length of the insert 20. The apertures 54
shown have generally arcuate, D-shaped cross-sections; however, the
apertures 54 could be essentially any polygonal and/or arcuate
shape. Additionally, the apertures 54 could be filled with a foam
material. FIG. 3B depicts an alternative embodiment of an insert
120. The insert 120 has a generally circular cross-section and an
outer wall 158 and two skeletal elements 156 defining three
apertures 154. FIG. 3C depicts another alternative embodiment of an
insert 220. The insert 220 has a generally circular cross-sectional
shape and is a substantially solid (foamed or non-foamed) piece
defining an elongate aperture 254. The apertures 54, 154, 254 and
skeletal elements 56, 156 define, at least in part, the anisotropic
properties of the inserts 20, 120, 220. The insert 20, 120, 220 is
stiffest, i.e. most difficult to compress, when in a vertical
orientation (as shown) and provides the softest cushioning, i.e.,
easiest to compress, when rotated 90 degrees to a horizontal
orientation. Specifically, the insert 20, 120, 220 has a greater
resistance to a force applied as shown by arrows 60, 160, 260, and
thereby a firmer "ride," than when exposed to a force applied as
shown by arrows 62, 162, 262. In other words, the insert 20 is
firmest in response to a force applied parallel to the skeletal
element 56 (arrows 60), as opposed to a force applied perpendicular
to the skeletal element 56 (arrows 62).
[0071] FIGS. 4A and 4B depict enlarged side views of the adjustable
cushioning system 12 of FIG. 1. FIG. 4A depicts the locking
mechanism 30 in a locked position and FIG. 4B depicts the locking
mechanism 30 in an unlocked or open position. In the embodiment
shown, the locking mechanism 30 has two locked orientations. The
first (and shown) orientation is about -45 degrees relative to a
vertical axis 42. The second orientation is located at about +45
degrees relative to the vertical axis 42. These two orientations
allow for 90 degrees of rotation of the inserts 20 relative to the
article of footwear. For example, and with reference to FIGS.
3A-3C, the insert 20 can be rotated to and locked in the vertical
position or the horizontal position. Alternatively, the insert 20
could have essentially any number of orientations in which the
insert 20 can be locked, as desired.
[0072] The locking mechanism 30 depicted is a dual position
mechanism configured to provide a toggle function, i.e., the
mechanism 30 is stable in either open or closed positions. The
lever 32 is coupled to the hub 35 and, correspondingly to the
insert 20, by a pin 37. The pin 37 is coupled to the lever 32 via
holes 64 disposed in the lever 32. The pin 37 may be held in place
by bonding, frictional engagement, or other mechanical means. Other
types of actuators and other methods of coupling the lever 32 to
the insert 20 are contemplated and within the scope of the
invention. The pin 37 may be made of spring steel and may have a
slight bend to effect the toggle function of the lever 32.
[0073] To unlock and orient the insert 20, the wearer lifts the
lever 32 out of the groove 33 to the unlocked position. In the
unlocked position, the lever 32 extends outwardly away from the
insert 20. The wearer can use the lever 32 as a handle to rotate
the hub 35 and shaft 34 into the desired orientation. The insert 20
rotates with the hub 35 and shaft 34. The insert 20 can include an
anti-friction coating that can assist the rotation of the insert
20. In the embodiment shown, the grooves 33 are located in the
casing 27 corresponding to various predetermined angular
orientations of the inserts 20. To lock the insert 20 into the
desired orientation, the wearer pivots the lever 32 so as to be
generally flush with the sole 16 and into the groove 33. The groove
33 acts as a stop to prevent rotation of the lever 32, thereby
preventing the insert 20 from rotating when in the locked
position.
[0074] FIGS. 5A-5D are perspective views of the positioning
mechanism 40. In the embodiment shown, the positioning mechanism 40
is at least partially disposed within the casing 27 located at the
first end 22; however, the positioning mechanism 40 could be
disposed on either end of the adjustable cushioning system 12. The
positioning mechanism 40 includes a detent assembly 36 that is
disposed within the casing 27 between the two retainer rings 31.
The assembly 36 includes two detents 39, one disposed adjacent each
retainer ring 31. The positioning mechanism 40 also includes a
ratchet wheel 38 for each insert 20 that provides an audible and
physical indication of orientation to the wearer. The positioning
mechanism 40 depicted includes two ratchet wheels 38 that are
generally circular in cross-section and are disposed generally
concentrically with the retainer rings 31 of the casing 27. The
ratchet wheel 38 may, in one embodiment, circumscribe an end of the
insert 20. The ratchet wheel 38 includes four notches 41 disposed
equidistantly about the ratchet wheel 38. The notches 41 correspond
to various predetermined orientations of the insert 20 and engage
the detents 39 to indicate (audibly and/or physically) to the
wearer when the insert 20 is in a desired orientation.
[0075] FIG. 5C depicts the engagement mechanism assembly 40 with
one ratchet wheel 38 removed. It can be seen that the detent 39
extends into the retainer ring 31 of the casing 27. Also shown are
the lever 32 and pin 37 components of the locking mechanism 30.
FIG. 5D is an exploded view of the components of the locking
mechanism 30 and the positioning mechanism 40. The lever 32 is
configured to fit substantially flush with the end cap 46. In
operation, the ratchet wheel 38 is coupled to the lever 32, such
that rotation of the lever 32 and insert 20 causes the ratchet
wheel 38 to rotate. The notches 41 engage the detents 39 as the
insert 20 and ratchet wheel 38 rotate. Once the wearer has reached
the desired orientation, as indicated by the audible and/or tactile
feedback of the positioning mechanism 40, the wearer can return the
lever 32 to the locked position. In an alternative embodiment, the
positioning mechanism 40 and the locking mechanism 30 can be
located on opposite ends of the adjustable cushioning system 12.
For example, the locking mechanism 30 can be located on the medial
side of a shoe and the positioning mechanism 40 can be located on
the lateral side of the shoe.
[0076] FIGS. 6A and 6B depict partially exploded views of the heel
18 of FIG. 1, as seen from the lateral side and the medial side,
respectively. In one embodiment, the adjustable cushioning system
12 is disposed between an upper plate 50 and a lower plate 52. The
upper plate 50 and the lower plate 52 may provide structural
support and stability for the article of footwear 10 and may house
and protect the adjustable cushioning system 12. The plates 50, 52,
in one embodiment, may be coupled forward of the adjustable
cushioning system 12 (see FIG. 1). Coupling the plates 50, 52 can
provide greater structural stability to the article of footwear and
can create a tunnel torsion element 66 in the shank area 68 (FIG.
1) of the sole 16. The plates 50, 52 can form a single, recumbent V
or U-shaped housing. The upper plate 50 may include a heel counter
formed in a top surface thereof and/or projections on a bottom
surface thereof that engage at least one of the casings 27, 29. The
lower plate 52 can lock the inserts 20 and system 12 in place
relative to the sole 16. Additionally, because the lower plate 52
can provide structural support to the article of footwear, less
material may be necessary for the outsole. For example, the lower
plate 52 can be insert injection molded with one or more rubber
outsole elements. Additionally, the lower plate 52 can be
transparent to allow a wearer visual access to the adjustable
cushioning system 12.
[0077] FIG. 7 depicts the sole 16 of FIG. 1. In addition to the
adjustable cushioning system 12 and plates 50, 52 described
hereinabove, the sole 16 can include heel outsole elements 70, a
forefoot outsole 74, a heel strike cushioning element 72, and a
midsole 76.
[0078] FIGS. 8A-8D depict an alternative embodiment of an
adjustable cushioning system 800 in accordance with the invention.
The adjustable cushioning system 800 includes one or more inserts
810. FIG. 8A is a perspective schematic view of the insert 810
including an end cap 812, an internal support 814, and an external
cushioning element 816. The insert 810 has a dual density
construction, where the internal support 814 and external
cushioning element 816 are manufactured from materials of differing
durometer. The term "dual density" is used herein according to its
ordinary meaning, e.g., the insert includes two materials of
differing density. The term dual density is, however, also used to
cover an insert comprising a single material surrounding a void(s),
such that the insert exhibits anisotropic characteristics.
[0079] The internal support 814 extends axially from the end cap
812 and the external cushioning element 816 is disposed about at
least a portion of the internal support 814. The insert 810 has a
generally cylindrical shape in the embodiment shown; however, the
shape can be chosen to suit any particular application.
[0080] The end cap 812 (FIG. 8C) is optional and can be disposed at
either one and/or both ends of the insert 810. As shown, the end
cap 812 is disposed at the proximal end 817 of the insert 810. The
end cap 812 is substantially cylindrical in shape. The end cap 812
has a lip 813 that defines a recess 815. The end cap 812 can
function as structural support for the insert 810 and/or serve an
aesthetic purpose. For example, the end cap 812 can be used as a
handle to rotate and/or remove the insert 810 from an article of
footwear. In addition, the end cap 812 could include a locking
mechanism to hold the insert 810 in place within the article of
footwear. The end cap 812 can also include indicia on an outer
surface thereof that indicates the orientation of the insert 810
within the article of footwear.
[0081] FIG. 8B is a perspective schematic view of the end cap 812
and internal support 814 extending axially therefrom. The internal
support 814 is coupled to the end cap 812 by frictional engagement
and/or an interference fit. Alternatively, the internal support 814
may be held in place by adhesive bonding, solvent bonding,
mechanical retention, or similar techniques. Typically, the
internal support 814 fills the recess 815 and may be bonded to the
lip 813 and/or the recess 815. Alternatively, the internal support
814 is not coupled to the end cap 812. The internal support 814 can
have a cross-sectional shape, such as polygonal, arcuate, or
combinations thereof. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8B, the
internal support 814 is substantially rectangular in shape and
extends the entire length and width of the insert 810. Typically,
the internal support 814 is made of a high durometer dense foam or
a substantially rigid material. Generally, the internal support 814
is made of a harder material than the external cushioning element
816.
[0082] The external cushioning element 816 is shown as two separate
pieces, one disposed on each side of the internal support 814;
however, the external cushioning element 816 can be a single piece
that completely surrounds the internal support 814. The external
cushioning element 816 is affixed to the internal support 814 by
adhesive bonding, solvent bonding, mechanical retention, or similar
techniques. The external cushioning element 816 extends from the
cap 812 and has a length that is slightly less than the length of
the internal support 814. The external cushioning element 816,
however, can extend the entire length of the internal support 814
or be longer than the internal support 814. The external cushioning
element 816 shown has a chamfer 823 disposed at its distal end 819.
Typically, the external cushioning element 816 is made of a soft
foam and has a durometer less than that of the internal support
814.
[0083] FIG. 8D is a cross-sectional schematic view of the insert
810 of FIG. 8A taken at line 8D-8D. The insert 810 has a generally
circular cross-section while the internal support 814 has a
generally rectangular cross-section and spans substantially the
entire width of the insert 810. The external cushioning element 816
is disposed on both sides of the internal support 814.
[0084] FIGS. 8E and 8F depict schematic cross-sectional views of
alternative inserts 860, 870. In FIG. 8E, the internal support 864
has an elliptical cross-sectional shape and the external cushioning
element 866 surrounds the internal support 864. The external
cushioning element 866 also includes an aperture 868 located on one
side of the internal support 864. The aperture 868 can extend
substantially the entire length of the external cushioning element
866 and can run generally parallel to the internal support 864. The
aperture 868 shown has a generally rectangular cross-sectional
shape; however, the aperture 868 could be essentially any polygonal
and/or arcuate shape. Alternatively, a second aperture 868 could be
located on the other side of the internal support 864. In FIG. 8F,
the internal support has been removed. The external cushioning
element 876 has two apertures 878 generally longitudinally disposed
therein. The apertures 878 are "crescent" shaped and run generally
parallel to the external cushioning element 876. Alternatively, the
apertures 878 could be "kidney" shaped. In this embodiment, the
insert 870 is stiffest, i.e. most difficult to compress, when in
the vertical orientation shown in FIG. 8F. The insert 870 provides
the softest cushioning, i.e., easiest to compress, when rotated 90
degrees so that the apertures 878 are oriented one above the
other.
[0085] FIGS. 9A-9C are perspective schematic views of an
alternative insert design. The size, shape, and material choices
for the insert 910 and its various components are essentially the
same as those discussed above with respect to FIGS. 8A-8D. The
insert 910 includes an end cap 912, an internal support 914, an
external cushioning element 916, and an axle 918. The axle 918 is
bonded to the end cap 912 and extends axially therefrom.
Alternatively, the axle 918 could be integrally formed with the end
cap 912. The axle 918 is a generally thin, elongate element that
adds stiffness to the internal support 914. The axle 918 can
include one or more apertures 925 disposed along its length to
reduce weight. The size, shape, and number of apertures can be
varied to suit a particular application. The internal support 914
is disposed about the axle 918. In the embodiment shown, the
internal support 914 is supported by the axle 918 and does not
contact the end cap 912. The internal support 914 has a series of
three ribs 920 disposed on each side thereof.
[0086] FIG. 9D is a cross-sectional schematic view of the insert
910 of FIG. 9A taken at line 9D-9D. The insert 910 has a generally
circular cross-section while the internal support 914 has a
generally rectangular cross-section and spans substantially the
entire width of the insert 910. The internal support 914 surrounds
the axle 918 and includes three ribs 920 disposed equidistantly on
each side of the internal support 914. The ribs 920 are generally
arcuate in shape. The number, shape, size, and placement of the
ribs 920 can be varied to suit a particular application. The
external cushioning element 916 includes two pieces, with one piece
disposed on each side of the internal support 914. As discussed
above with respect to FIGS. 8E and 8F, the external cushioning
element 916 can include one or more apertures disposed therein.
[0087] The various components of the adjustable cushioning systems
described herein can be manufactured by, for example, injection
molding or extrusion and optionally a combination of subsequent
machining operations. Extrusion processes may be used to provide a
uniform shape, such as a single monolithic frame. Insert molding
can then be used to provide the desired geometry of the open
spaces, or the open spaces could be created in the desired
locations by a subsequent machining operation. Other manufacturing
techniques include melting or bonding additional portions. For
example, the internal walls or skeletal elements 56, 156 may be
adhered to the insert 20, 120 with a liquid epoxy or a hot melt
adhesive, such as ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA). In addition to
adhesive bonding, components can be solvent bonded, which entails
using a solvent to facilitate fusing of various components. In
another example, the end cap 912 could be fused to the internal
support 914 during a foaming process, or could be integrally formed
with the axle 918.
[0088] The various components can be manufactured from any suitable
polymeric material or combination of polymeric materials, either
with or without reinforcement. Suitable materials include:
polyurethanes, such as a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU); EVA;
thermoplastic polyether block amides, such as the Pebax.RTM. brand
sold by Elf Atochem; thermoplastic polyester elastomers, such as
the Hytrel.RTM. brand sold by DuPont; thermoplastic elastomers,
such as the Santoprene.RTM. brand sold by Advanced Elastomer
Systems, L.P.; thermoplastic olefin; nylons, such as nylon 12,
which may include 10 to 30 percent or more glass fiber
reinforcement; silicones; polyethylenes; acetal; and equivalent
materials. Reinforcement, if used, may be by inclusion of glass or
carbon graphite fibers or para-aramid fibers, such as the
Kevlar.RTM. brand sold by DuPont, or other similar method. Also,
the polymeric materials may be used in combination with other
materials, for example rubber. Other suitable materials will be
apparent to those skilled in the art.
[0089] The insert 20 can be made of one or more various density
foams, non-foamed polymer materials, and/or skeletal elements. In
an optional embodiment, an external surface 21 of the insert 20 may
be coated with an anti-friction coating, such as a paint including
Teflon.RTM. material sold by DuPont or a similar substance. The
insert 20 can be color coded to indicate to a wearer the specific
performance characteristics of the insert 20. The size and shape of
the insert 20 and the casings 26, 28 can vary to suit a particular
application. The inserts can be about 10 mm to about 40 mm in
diameter, preferably about 20 mm to about 30 mm, and more
preferably about 25 mm. The length of the insert 20 can be about 50
mm to about 100 mm, preferably about 75 mm to about 90 mm, and more
preferably 85 mm. The casings 26, 27, 28, 29 can be about 5 mm to
about 20 mm deep, preferably about 8 mm to about 12 mm, and more
preferably about 10 mm. The inside diameter of the retainer rings
31 is about 10 mm to about 40 mm, preferably about 20 mm to about
30 mm, and more preferably about 25 mm.
[0090] In addition, the insert 810 can be integrally formed by a
process called reverse injection, in which the external cushioning
element 816 itself forms the mold for the internal support 814.
Such a process can be more economical than conventional
manufacturing methods, because a separate internal support 814 mold
is not required. The insert 810 can also be formed in a single step
called dual injection, where two or more materials of differing
densities are injected simultaneously to create integrally the
external cushioning element 816 and the internal support 814. The
materials chosen for the various insert components should be
"compatible," such that the various components are able to
chemically bond to each other at discrete mating locations. In
various embodiments, the insert 20 could be a dual density
polyurethane foam (40 and 75 asker Shore C hardnesses) or an
extruded thermoplastic olefin, for example. The casings 26, 27, 28,
29 could be made of Pebax and the plates 50, 52 could be injection
molded TPU.
[0091] FIGS. 10A-10D depict another alternative embodiment of an
insert 1010 in accordance with the invention. The insert 1010
includes two optional end caps 1012 and an internal support 1014
surrounded by an external cushioning element 1016. The end cap 1012
located at the distal end 1019 of the insert 1010 includes an
orientation indicator 1028 disposed thereon. The indicator 1028
(FIG. 10B) can be formed in the end cap 1012 or can be indicia
printed on the end cap 1012 that indicates to the wearer the
orientation of the insert 1010 within the article of footwear. In
an alternative embodiment, the end cap 1012 could include a locking
mechanism to hold the insert 1010 in place within the article of
footwear. A semi-circular handle 1024 (FIG. 10C) is located on the
proximal end 1017 of the insert 1010. The handle 1024 can be formed
as part of the end cap 1012 or can be mechanically coupled to the
end cap 1012. Alternatively, the handle 1024 can be integrally
formed or coupled to the internal support 1014 and/or external
cushioning element 1016 and can pass through an opening in the end
cap 1012. In a particular embodiment, the handle 1024 is an
extension of the internal support 1014 and there is no end cap 1012
disposed on the proximal end 1017 of the insert 1010. The handle
1024 can be used by the wearer to rotationally orient the insert
1010 within the article of footwear and/or remove the insert 1010
from the article of footwear. In alternative embodiments, the
handle 1024 and orientation indicator 1028 can be located on the
same end of the insert 1010. In one embodiment, the handle 1024 can
form at least a portion of the orientation indicator 1028. In
addition, the insert 1010 and/or end caps 1012 can be visible to an
observer and can indicate to the observer what type of insert 1010
is installed in the footwear. Also, the insert 1010 and/or end caps
1012 can have decorative features. As shown in FIG. 10D, the insert
1010 has a generally circular cross-section and the internal
support 1014 has a cross-section including polygonal and arcuate
elements. The external cushioning element 1016 surrounds the
internal support 1014.
[0092] FIGS. 11A and 11B depict an article of footwear 1160
including an upper 1162, a sole 1164, and an adjustable cushioning
system 1112 in accordance with the invention. FIG. 11A is a
schematic side view of the article of footwear 1160. The adjustable
cushioning system 1112 includes two inserts 1120 generally
laterally disposed in a heel region 1168 of the sole 1164. The
inserts 1120 can span substantially the entire width of the article
of footwear 1160. In one embodiment, the sole 1164 can include an
outsole 1170 and a midsole 1166, and the system 1112 can be
disposed at least partially within the midsole 1166. Typically, the
inserts 1120 are laterally disposed within the article of footwear
1160 for running and to adjust the roll of the footwear 1160.
[0093] FIG. 11B is a perspective schematic view of the sole 1164 of
the article of footwear 1160 of FIG. 11A with the inserts 1120
removed. The inserts 1120 could be any of the types described
hereinabove. The inserts 1120 are shown in different orientations.
As will be discussed later with respect to FIGS. 14A-14F, the
orientation of the insert 1120 affects the performance
characteristics of the article of footwear 1160. The insert 1120 is
coupled to the article of footwear 1160 by frictional engagement
and/or interference fit. Other ways of coupling the insert 1120 to
the article of footwear 1160 are possible, as long as the insert
1120 maintains a secure, but rotatable fit within the article of
footwear 1160.
[0094] FIG. 12 depicts an alternative embodiment of an adjustable
cushioning system 1212 disposed in the sole 1164 of FIG. 11B. The
adjustable cushioning system 1212 is shown removed and includes two
inserts 1220 generally longitudinally disposed in a heel region
1168 of the sole 1164. Typically, the inserts 1220 are
longitudinally disposed within the sole 1164 to control pronation
and/or supination. The inserts 1220 can be inserted through the
back of the heel region 1168 and extend to about the arch region
1172 of the sole 1164. The length of the insert 1220 and its
position within the sole 1164 can vary to suit a particular
application and/or a particular type of article of footwear. For
example, the insert 1220 may not extend beyond the heel region
1168. In one embodiment, the sole 1164 can include an outsole 1170
and a midsole 1166, and the system 1212 can be disposed at least
partially within the midsole 1166. Alternatively, the adjustable
cushioning system 1212 can include only a single insert 1220
disposed either on-center or offset from the midline of the sole
1164.
[0095] FIG. 13 depicts the sole 1164 of FIG. 11B and another
alternative embodiment of an adjustable cushioning system 1312. The
adjustable cushioning system 1312 is shown removed from the sole
1164. The adjustable cushioning system 1312 includes a single
insert 1320 generally diagonally disposed in the heel region 1168
of the sole 1164. The insert 1320 shown includes a casing 1326,
1328 located on each end. The insert 1320 can span substantially
the entire width of the sole 1164. In one embodiment, the
adjustable cushioning system 1312 can be disposed at least
partially within a midsole. In another embodiment, the insert 1320
can be positioned diagonally across the heel strike zone of the
sole 1164.
[0096] FIGS. 14A-14F are rear views of a right footed article of
footwear 1460 in accordance with the invention. The article of
footwear 1460 includes an upper 1462, a sole 1464, and an
adjustable cushioning system 1412 with two inserts 1420 generally
longitudinally disposed within a heel region 1468 of the sole 1464.
In various embodiments, the system 1412 could include only one
insert 1420 or more than two inserts 1420, and the inserts 1420
could be generally laterally or diagonally disposed in the sole
1464. Each view represents a possible combination of insert
orientations. The examples shown are not meant to be exhaustive and
other combinations are possible. The wearer can customize the level
of cushioning in the footwear 1460 by rotating the insert 1420
relative to the article of footwear 1460. Additionally, inserts
1420 having different properties can be substituted for further
customization of the article of footwear 1460.
[0097] In FIG. 14A, the inserts 1420, as represented by orientation
indicators 1428, are both in a "vertical" position, i.e.
perpendicular to the ground, which results in the firmest possible
cushioning. The internal structure, for example the skeletal
element(s) 56, act as joists to increase support and stiffen the
ride of the article of footwear 1460. FIG. 14B depicts both inserts
1420 in a "horizontal" position, i.e., parallel with the ground,
which results in the softest cushioning. In the horizontal
position, the insert 1420 allows the article of footwear 1460 more
flex. The wearer can further customize the performance
characteristics of the article of footwear 1460 by positioning each
insert 1420 between the horizontal position and the vertical
position.
[0098] FIGS. 14C and 14D depict two other possible combinations
where the inserts 1420 are oriented symmetrically. In both views,
the inserts 1420 are positioned at about 45 degrees to normal,
resulting in a moderate amount of cushioning.
[0099] Alternatively, the inserts 1420 can be oriented in
non-symmetrical positions, as shown in FIGS. 14E and 14F. In FIG.
14E, the insert 1420 located on the medial side 1474 is oriented to
maximize the stiffness of the medial side 1474 of the sole 1464
relative to the lateral side 1476 of the sole 1464, where the
insert 1420 is oriented to maximize cushioning. In such an
arrangement, the increased stiffness on the medial side 1474 helps
to prevent pronation. The wearer can vary the position of the
insert 1420 to vary the amount of compensation for pronation.
[0100] In FIG. 14F, the insert 1420 located on the lateral side
1476 is oriented to maximize the stiffness of the lateral side 1476
of the sole 1464 relative to the medial side 1474 of the sole 1464,
where the insert 1420 is oriented to maximize cushioning. In such
an arrangement, the increased stiffness on the lateral side 1476
helps to prevent supination. The wearer can vary the position of
the insert 1420 to vary the amount of compensation for
supination.
[0101] FIGS. 15A and 15B are top and bottom perspective schematic
views, respectively, of an alternative casing 1540 for use with an
adjustable cushioning system 1512 (FIG. 16) in accordance with the
invention. The casing 1540 is typically disposed in a heel region
of the article of footwear and may provide stability and support to
the wearer's foot, while the inserts 1520 provide the adjustable
cushioning. The casing 1540 is a substantially recumbent U-shape
with a top platform 1542, a bottom platform 1544, and two recesses
1546 generally laterally disposed within the casing 1540 for
receiving the two inserts 1520. Alternatively, the casing 1540 can
have one recess 1546 or more than two recesses 1546, depending on
the number of inserts 1520 that make up a particular embodiment of
the adjustable cushioning system 1512. Also, the casing size and
shape can vary to suit a particular application and/or a particular
type of article of footwear. The casing 1540 has an optional
aperture 1548 generally centrally disposed in the top platform 1542
and an optional slot 1552 that runs generally longitudinally along
the bottom platform 1544. In the embodiment shown, the slot 1552
runs along the bottom platform 1544 and up to the top platform
1542. The casing 1540 can include stiffening ribs 1550 that hold
the inserts 15 10 in place, while adding stiffness to the overall
casing 1540. The casing 1540 can also be manufactured of any of the
materials and any of the processes discussed hereinabove.
[0102] FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of an adjustable
cushioning system 1512 in accordance with the invention. The system
1512 includes an insert 1520 and a casing 1540. The casing 1540 is
a single molded piece with a single, laterally disposed recess 1546
for receiving the insert 1520. Alternatively, the recess 1546 and
insert 1520 could be longitudinally or angularly disposed within
the casing 1540.
[0103] FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of a sole of a shoe
including an alternative embodiment of an adjustable cushioning
system 1612 and a locking mechanism 1630 in accordance with one
embodiment of the invention. The cushioning system 1612 is similar
to the cushioning systems described hereinabove. For example, the
cushioning system 1612 is disposed below the midsole 1676 in the
heel region 1618 of the sole 1616 between an upper plate 1650 and a
lower plate 1652. The locking mechanism 1630 can be used on any
type of removable or rotatable insert, for instance a generally
cylindrically shaped isotropic type insert that is made of a single
type of foam material having a constant durometer throughout. The
locking mechanism 1630 includes an actuator 1680, a spring loaded
shaft 1682 coupled to the actuator 1680, and an engagement
mechanism, such as a pair of forks 1684 coupled to the spring
loaded shaft 1682. Also included as part of the locking mechanism
1630 is a groove 1686 (FIG. 20) that is disposed circumferentially
about a distal end 1621 of the insert 1620. Adjacent to the groove
1686 are a plurality of locking slots 1688. When the locking
mechanism 1630 is in the unlocked position, the forks 1684 are
received in the groove 1686. In the locked position, the forks 1684
are received in the locking slots 1688, which prevent rotation of
the inserts 1620 within the cushioning system 1612. Also included
as part of the locking mechanism 1630 are a pair of rings 1609
disposed on the upper plate 1650 that accept the spring loaded
shaft 1682 to secure the spring loaded shaft 1682 in the shoe.
[0104] With reference to FIGS. 18-20, to unlock the locking
mechanism 1630 and rotate the inserts 1620 to a new position within
the retainer rings 1631 of the casing 1627, a wearer of the shoe
activates the actuator 1680, for example a button. In the
illustrated embodiment, the actuator 1680 is located on the lateral
side of the shoe. Pressing and holding the button 1680 causes the
spring loaded shaft 1682 along with the forks 1684, which are
coupled to the shaft 1682, to advance (arrow 1683) towards the
medial side of the shoe. As the shaft 1682 and the forks 1684
advance, the forks 1684 disengage the locking slots 1688 and engage
the groove 1686 circumscribing the insert 1620. When the forks 1684
engage the groove 1686, the wearer can rotate the inserts 1620 to a
desired position by using any of the positioning mechanisms 1640
previously described. In the embodiment shown, a positioning
mechanism, such as a cap 1640 disposed on one end of the insert
1620 (proximal end 1622), is adapted to accommodate a wearer's
fingers for turning the insert 1620. For example, the cap 1640 may
include recesses 1641 for accepting the wearer's fingers. In an
alternative embodiment, the position of the locking mechanism 1630
can be reversed, such that the actuator 1680 is located on the
medial side of the shoe and the forks 1684 move towards the lateral
side of the shoe when actuated. In this reversed arrangement, the
groove 1686 circumscribes the proximal end 1622 of the insert
1620.
[0105] Once the user has rotated the inserts 1620 to a desired
position, the wearer releases the button 1680, causing the spring
loaded shaft 1682 to move back towards the lateral side of the
shoe, as a result of the force applied by the spring 1685. If
either insert 1620 is not aligned in a predefined position, such
that the corresponding fork 1684 aligns with the locking slot 1688,
the wearer rotates the insert 1620 until the corresponding fork
1684 springs back into the locking slot 1688. When the forks 1684
are aligned with the locking slots 1688, releasing the button 1680
causes the inserts 1620 to be locked in that position. In one
embodiment, there are four locking positions equally spaced about
each insert 1620. Each 90 degree turn of the insert 1620 enables
the wearer to utilize a different locking position, with each
locking position corresponding to the points at which the locking
slots 1688 and forks 1684 engage. In other embodiments, fewer or
more than four locking positions can be provided, depending on the
number of adjustment positions available to the wearer. In one
embodiment, the insert 1620 is rotatable 360 degrees and the groove
1686 circumscribes the entire insert 1620. In another embodiment,
the groove 1686 circumscribes only a portion of the insert 1620,
which correspondingly limits the amount of adjustability of the
adjustable cushioning system 1612.
[0106] The locking mechanism 1630 of the current embodiment
simplifies and reduces the time required to manufacture the shoe of
the present invention. For instance, a shaft is no longer required
to run through the center of the inserts 1620, since the recesses
located near the end portions of the inserts 1620 enable the
inserts 1620 to be locked in place. Another advantage is that the
wearer is less likely to damage the locking mechanism by forcing
the inserts 1620 to turn through an angle greater than 90
degrees.
[0107] Having described certain embodiments of the invention, it
will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that other
embodiments incorporating the concepts disclosed herein may be used
without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For
example, the inserts and the mating apertures in the casings can be
splines or have non-circular cross-sections, so that the inserts
must be removed to be reoriented and then reinstalled. In this
manner, the need for separate locking mechanisms can be obviated.
Accordingly, the described embodiments are to be considered in all
respects as only illustrative and not restrictive.
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